From the Rocky Mountains to big cities, Alberta has no shortage of incredible places to travel, wander and explore, but Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is among the most significant.

Located south of Calgary, this incredible site is protected by The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and sees thousands of visitors a year.

So what makes it so important?

Head-Smashed-In is so much more than just a remote destination with a beautiful view.

“The significance of the landscape of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump lies in its historical, archaeological and scientific interest,” explains UNESCO. 

Photo via Jeff Whyte / Shutterstock.com

“It is the best preserved example of the communal hunting techniques and of the way of life of the Plains people based on the vast herds of bison that existed in North America for more than five millennia.”

According to the Canadian Encyclopedia, research suggests that this particular buffalo jump was used for nearly 6,000 years, which means there’s still much to discover under the grassy base.

Want to visit the interpretive centre?

With 7 levels built into the sandstone cliffs and hiking trails above and below, there is plenty to learn, see and do all year round.

Head-Smashed-In will be open from 10 am to 5 pm Monday to Sunday until October 14, 2024, before switching to fall hours.

It’s truly one of a kind! – so check it out.

Happy visiting and enjoy. Its an Albeta must-visit.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Alberta

Where: Northwest of Fort Macleod on secondary Highway #785, Fort MacLeod, Alberta
Cost: $15+ adult admission

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Parts of Alberta are currently facing significant fire activity. If you’d like to help the many communities affected, please head to the Canadian Wildfire Fund

Cassandra Stefanic

Regional Editor, Prairies –Cassandra is a Calgary-based journalist with a deep appreciation for music, film, food, travelling, and storytelling. When she’s not chasing a story, writing, or editing, you’ll likely find her in the mountains, binge-watching a new series, at a speakeasy, cooking, or getting lost in a Taylor Swift re-record.

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